Kagoshima Prefecture is located at the southern tip of Kyushu Island, southwest of Honshu, the largest of Japan’s four main islands. Yakushima is an isolated island to the south of Kagoshima and is still a pristine and natural paradise.

The dense forest of Shiratani Unsuikyo was the model for the forest in Studio Ghibli’s movie, “The Princess Mononoke.” The virgin forest is so dense that the sun’s rays rarely reach the ground. Here, one is early greeted by groves of cedar, designated a national monument, as well as the deep green hues of moss covering the ground, rocks, and tree trunks.

How to get there

From Yakushima Airport, get on the bus to Miyanoura Port bus stop. From there, use either the “Matsu banda kotsu” or “Tanegashima Yakushima kotsu” to Shiratani Unsuikyo. Get off at the Shiratani Unsuikyo bus stop.

Reservations & Services

JAL Japan Explorer Pass

JAL Japan Explorer Pass is a simple and low cost fare for travelers wishing to explore the unique culture and feel of local Japan. The fare can be used to access over 30 cities across JAL’s domestic network.